The Business Benefits of Cloud Computing for SMEs

Cloud computing services are becoming increasingly critical for SME’s. With the burgeoning economic pressure placed on London-based businesses, together with fast-changing trends and digital challenges that impact scalability, CEO’s and office managers are scrambling to find solutions.

Todays SME’s rely on an IT infrastructure to improve the running of their business. The irony is, IT departments are expensive, the hardware is cumbersome, and software soon becomes outdated and needs upgrading. Traditional IT systems do not operate at optimum performance.

Cloud computing, on the other hand, provides solutions SME’s cannot afford to ignore.

1. Cloud computing cuts costs

For CEO’s with a fragile budget, switching to cloud computing is a no-brainer. You only pay for services you need and the low monthly fees cut down on hefty software and hardware costs. Not only that but with a third-party support team in place, you can afford to soften your wage bill.

Furthermore, there is no need for cumbersome servers to be installed in your offices. This not only saves on energy costs but creates more office space which you can use to expand other departments that increase the productivity and profitability of your company.

Cloud computing service providers also take responsibility for monitoring, maintaining and upgrading system networks. Using advanced tools, system administrators can detect potential problems and rectify the issue before the network crashes.

3. Collaboration and convenience

To improve productivity, SME’s need to be flexible. Storing files in the cloud enables your staff to access files from anywhere on any device. This provides more convenience for employees on the road or that have chosen to work from home.

Sharing files is also much easier. Your staff can, therefore, collaborate on projects much more easily, even from remote locations. When files are stored online, project teams can work together and update documents in real-time.

4. Security

With cybercrime on the rise, there is intense public scrutiny on a company’s ability to protect their data. Cloud computing can help to provide a solution by adding an extra layer of security to your defence systems.

Data that is stored in the cloud is encrypted to block hackers attempting to intercept files. Furthermore, advanced technology can identify corrupted files and incubate viruses to prevent them from spreading and putting your entire network at risk.

5. Scalability and flexibility

The digital arena is maturing quickly. As a result of new technologies and consumer behaviours, SME’s can struggle to keep up with the pace of the marketplace. No sooner have you installed a new program, and it needs updating with improved software or faster hardware.

Taking advantage of cloud computing services negates the need to constantly invest in a traditional IT infrastructure. Software is easily accessible and affordable, and pay-per-use models mean you are flexible enough to adapt to changing markets without burning your budget.

What to expect from cloud computing services

There are several different types of cloud computing services and a wide range of technologies and products to choose from. Although cloud computing service providers will have slightly different business models, you will have access to powerful resources together with a dashboard that enables you to take control of your business needs.

The types of cloud-based services are infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS) and software as a service (SaaS). Although each type is a separate service, you can integrate all three and create a comprehensive cloud computing stack.

When considering cloud services that will most benefit your business, look at your core structure and look to incorporate essential elements your business cannot operate without.

Some examples of essential cloud technologies include:

File sharing and syncing – Autotask Workplace

Sharing files and syncing multiple devices enhances the quality of your operations and improves user-experience. You can expect to see more productivity together with increased security. Autotask Workplace is an industry leader that offers tools that competing software does not, such as mobile management.

HR – PeopleHR

PeopleHR is a centralised hub that enables your human resources team to perform all their admin duties from one place together with methods to track, monitor and record employee performance. The software is proving to be reliable and effective and is receiving excellent customer reviews.

Cloud-based server and storage – Microsoft Azure

Microsoft is a dominant presence in SME offices and with Azure, the company has gone out of its way to simplify the process of creating and managing cloud-based assets. Solutions include hosting, backup, application development, eCommerce, monitoring, data analysis and much more.

Key Takeaways

With 88% of UK companies already adopting cloud technology, those that haven’t, risk being left behind. Cloud computing gives SME’s freedom and flexibility to grow. Payment structures based on a per-user/ per-month rates provide scalability to any small and medium-sized businesses.

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About Mit Patel

Mit - Managing Director. In 2002, Mit founded Netstar. He has helped grow Netstar to become an indispensable partner to some of London’s finest businesses, including well known names in the Financial Services industry. Mit works across all aspects of the business including strategic planning and key account management. Mit is focused on ensuring the delivery of a high quality service, and providing strategic value to help our customers overcome their business challenges. View all posts by Mit Patel →

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